misuse

[ noun mis-yoos; verb mis-yooz ]

noun

1. wrong or improper use; misapplication.

   Synonyms: misappropriation, misemployment

2. Obsolete. bad or abusive treatment.

verb (used with object)

, mis·used, mis·us·ing.

1. to use wrongly or improperly; misapply.
2. to treat badly or abusively; maltreat.

misuse

noun

1. erroneous, improper, or unorthodox use

   misuse of words

2. cruel or inhumane treatment

verb

1. to use wrongly
2. to treat badly or harshly
3. to use (something, esp alcohol, drugs, etc) improperly

Word History and Origins

Origin of misuse¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; mis- ¹, use

Example Sentences

But it is not the same as illicit GHB - a dangerous and illegal drug misused for its euphoric effects.

From BBC

Some conservatives say the Antiquities Act has been misused as a tool for unchecked land grabs.

From Los Angeles Times

The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has asked doctors to be alert for patients who may be misusing obesity injections, such as Wegovy.

From BBC

With a few high-profile cases like Perry’s death recently circulating in the news, others are questioning whether it is time to develop a stronger regulatory network for ketamine prescribing to prevent misuse and diversion.

From Salon

His exit halted the release of a congressional report into allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use and misuse of campaign funds.

From BBC

Related Words

• corruption
• exploitation
• harm
• maltreatment
• mistreatment
• prostitution
• squandering
• waste